Winter Wonderland Grand Switch On
On Saturday 30th November, Sid and Scrat from Ice Age switched on the spectacular Christmas light display at Drusillas Park and declared the Winter Wonderland officially open for 2013.
Hundreds of revellers witnessed the spectacle during a ceremony held at 4.30pm in the Events Arena at the award-winning family attraction in East Sussex. Managing Director, Christine Smith said a few words to mark the occasion before handing over to the much-loved duo, Sid and Scrat for a ceremonial countdown and the grand switch on.
Sid and Scrat appeared right at home on the night, as the spectacular Illuminations are set within an ice-capped kingdom and feature an animal themed light show synchronised to music.
Between 60–70,000 LED lights have been used to create the impressive scene specifically chosen for their low energy consumption and environmental benefits. Revellers enjoyed a host of magical creatures within the dazzling display including penguins, polar bears and reindeer; the Winter Wonderland Illuminations will now run daily from 4.30pm until Sunday 5th January.
Also dashing in for the occasion, Father Christmas made a welcome return to the zoo. He will now be in his cosy Cottage every weekend until 14th December, when he will return daily until 23rd December; for a small additional charge of £5 children can meet Santa and receive an early Christmas gift.
Plus visitors could also Hug a Husky; the two cuddly canines met visitors between 1pm and 5pm in their new home in the Ice Cave. They will return to Drusillas each weekend until 19th December, when they will appear daily until 23rd December.
Zoo Director, Christine Smith commented: “We are delighted to see our Winter Wonderland return to the zoo. The Illuminations proved a popular attraction last year and we are sure that this year’s display will be equally well received, with all donations given to our Charity of the Year for 2013, Variety the Children’s Charity.”